Rebecca Hay Talks Condo Kitchen Design

Designer Q&AArticlesKitchen

What were your clients’ needs for this space?

The couple had just downsized from their large 5,000 square foot family home so we needed to maximize the counter space in this condo kitchen while opening up the layout to add much needed light into the space.

Were there any challenges designing this space?

We struggled with where to place the pocket door to the dining room. We knew the clients didn’t want the kitchen open to the dining room so we decided to install a pocket door to the dining room so that the door swing didn’t interfere with either space. It ended being the perfect solution.

What’s one unique element of the design that works well in this space?

The kitchen table/island. This was a solution that we came up with after our clients requested a kitchen table instead of an eat in island. They wanted table height seating but there wasn’t enough space to fit a table next to the island. We needed the island for its storage and so could not compromise there. In the end I designed a custom table attached to the island. By making the table top surface in a different material it helps separate the two zones. My clients love it and enjoy almost every meal together there.

Do you have any special considerations or requirements when creating a kitchen?

Kitchens are so personal. I truly enjoy designing kitchens because they are like a giant puzzle to me. I always ask for my client’s wish lists of all the items they need to store and all the functions they require. My goal is to give them the best functioning kitchen while providing them with a fresh and inspired space to cook and entertain in.

How does the flooring play into your design?

We chose a beautiful red oak hardwood floor and laid it throughout the entire condo. I love putting hardwood in a kitchen, it’s so soft and warm underfoot. It’s also forgiving of you drop something it’s doesn’t break!

Why did you choose these colors?

I wanted to add warmth to this kitchen. So instead of the typical all white kitchen we selected a warm rich navy color for the island. It makes it feel a little bit more like a solid piece of furniture than kitchen cabinetry.

What is your favorite aspect of this room?

The vintage chairs that we found at a consignment store. I had them painted a fresh coat of white and re-upholstered in a fun contemporary polka dot pattern. It reminds guests that he couple living here are fun and like to surprise their guests!

What did your client like the most?

My client loves it all but especially the open design. They didn’t initially want to tear down the wall between the kitchen and den but in the end they agree that it makes the room brighter, larger and much more functional that it was before!

Rebecca Hay is the Principal Designer of Rebecca Hay Designs

With a focus on exceptional quality, Rebecca Hay Designs offers a full range of interior design services, specializing in luxury residential. Rebecca’s designs infuse old with new, creating a signature blend of traditional and contemporary. An extensive network of resources and partnerships allow Rebecca and her team to deliver outstanding, hands-on service, and beautifully creative solutions that bring their clients’ visions to life. @rebeccahaydesigns